The Folsom Auto Mall is here to help when it comes to quick and easy tips on how to conserve gas when you’re running low on fuel. Check out these suggestions and swing by the Folsom Auto Mall to make sure your vehicle is running as efficiently as possible!
Read the rest of this entryCategory Archives: fuel
Benefits of Electric Vehicles
You probably know the most obvious benefits of driving an electric vehicle, but Folsom Auto Mall put together a short list of even more reasons to consider an EV. Read on to find out why electric vehicles might be a good option for you.
Read the rest of this entryHow to increase fuel economy
How you drive, how you maintain your vehicle and what kind of vehicle you have all have to do with how much fuel you burn. If you’re looking to keep your fuel costs down, the Folsom Auto Mall has some tips that might help.
Read the rest of this entryWhat are Auto Start/Stop Systems?
A relatively new feature in vehicles is the auto start / stop system. Just as it sounds, this system automatically shuts down and restarts a vehicle’s engine, with the intention of reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This system is available in both hybrid-electric vehicles and gas-powered vehicles.
Read the rest of this entryUnderstanding the Key Differences Between EVs, PHEVs, and Hybrids
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, eco-friendly vehicles have become more popular than ever. With a variety of electrified options available, it’s essential to understand the key differences between Electric Vehicles (EVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), and Hybrid Vehicles. Each of these vehicle types offers unique advantages, catering to different driving needs and lifestyles. Let’s explore the characteristics and benefits of each.
Read the rest of this entryThe Power of Proper Tire Pressure…
We’ve all been there. You’re cruising down the road, the wind in your hair, music blasting, when suddenly that dreaded “low tire pressure” light pops up on your dashboard. You might roll your eyes, groan, and think, *”I’ll take care of it later.”* But, trust me, that little light is not just a nuisance – it’s a friendly reminder that your tires need some attention. And while you’re probably aware that tire pressure affects your car’s performance, there’s a lot more to it than you might realize. Let’s break down why keeping your tires properly inflated is one of the easiest (and most essential) ways to ensure your car stays in tip-top shape.
Why Tire Pressure Matters
Tire pressure isn’t just about comfort – it’s about safety, efficiency, and longevity. Maintaining the correct tire pressure has several important benefits:
1. Safety First: Underinflated tires can cause your car to handle poorly, especially during wet or icy conditions. Overinflated tires, on the other hand, can make your ride harsh and increase the risk of a blowout. Properly inflated tires improve your car’s stability, giving you better control on the road.
2. Fuel Efficiency: When your tires are underinflated, they create more rolling resistance, meaning your car has to work harder to move. This uses more fuel. By maintaining the correct pressure, you can improve your gas mileage and save money at the pump.
3. Tire Longevity: Tires with the correct pressure wear more evenly and last longer. Over time, driving on improperly inflated tires can lead to premature wear, which means you’ll need to replace them sooner than necessary.
How to Check Tire Pressure
Checking your tire pressure is easy and should be done at least once a month. Here’s how:
1. Get a Tire Pressure Gauge: You can pick one up at any auto parts store, and there are both digital and manual versions. Some newer cars even have built-in tire pressure monitors, but it’s always good to double-check.
2. Check When Tires Are Cold: Tire pressure can fluctuate with temperature, so it’s best to check your tire pressure when the tires haven’t been driven on for at least 3 hours. This gives you the most accurate reading.
3. Know the Correct PSI: Your car’s recommended tire pressure (measured in PSI – pounds per square inch) is usually listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side door or in your vehicle’s manual. Don’t rely on the pressure that’s printed on the side of the tire itself, as that number is often the maximum pressure the tire can handle, not the optimal pressure.
4. Measure and Adjust: Simply press the gauge onto the valve stem of the tire to get a reading. If the pressure is too high, release air until it reaches the right level. If it’s too low, add air until it matches the recommended PSI.
How to Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
1.Monitor Regularly: As mentioned earlier, checking your tire pressure once a month is a good rule of thumb. However, if you’re planning a long road trip, it’s a great idea to check right before you hit the road.
2. Keep an Eye on Temperature Change: Tire pressure can drop in cold weather and rise in hot weather. If the temperature fluctuates dramatically, give your tires a quick check to make sure they’re still in the right range.
3. Don’t Overinflate: While underinflation is a big problem, overinflation can also cause issues. If the tire pressure is too high, it can lead to reduced traction and a rougher ride. It’s important to stay within the recommended range.
The importance of maintaining the correct tire pressure can’t be overstated. It’s an easy, inexpensive task that can improve your car’s safety, performance, and fuel efficiency. Plus, it’ll save you from costly repairs down the road. So, next time that tire pressure light flickers on, don’t ignore it. A little air might just be all your car needs to keep rolling smoothly for miles to come.
EVs and Hybrids. The Pros and Pros list.
So you want to do your part to have cleaner air. Or maybe you just wanna save on fuel costs. You’re looking to compare electric vehicles and hybrids. It’s tough to compare when there’s only upside to both. To help make your buying experience a little more informed, we have jotted down all the benefits of these two electrified powertrains.
The pros of buying an electric vehicle
Save money on fuel
Yes, you really do save money by purchasing an electric vehicle. The average home in the United States spends about 1/5 of its yearly income on transportation.* Each year the average fuel savings a family can expect to receive from their electric vehicle is around $1,000.** The cost to fully charge a 60-kilowatt-hour (kWh) EV with more than 230 miles of range at home is less than $8. Plus, energy prices don’t fluctuate as much as oil does, so budgeting for your electric vehicle can be more consistent.
Zero Tailpipe Emissions
In full-electric mode, an electric car produces zero tailpipe emissions, dramatically lowering smog and greenhouse gas emissions. Cleaner cars mean cleaner air and better health. California and the world are already seeing the impacts of greenhouse gases and climate change, so contributing to a cleaner future is another pro of electric vehicles!
Lower Maintenance Costs
Electric motors have fewer moving parts and never require oil changes, new spark plugs, or fuel filters. Regenerative braking also extends the life span of brake pads by using the electric motor to slow down the vehicle. These things all translate to drastically lowering overall maintenance costs. It’s not just fuel savings, folks!
Tax Credits and Incentives
Whether you buy or lease, when it comes to an electric car you could get money back. There are federal, state and local incentives to bring down the cost of that electric car of your dreams.
The pros of buying a hybrid car
Save money on fuel
Because your car is part EV and part gas-powered you are going to see significant savings at the pump. Hybrids have highly efficient engines that can switch to electric power for fuel instead of always relying on gas. This means far fewer trips to the pump.
You may help save the environment
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average passenger vehicle emits 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually,*** plus other pollutants like methane and nitrous oxide – all greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. By choosing to drive a hybrid, you are contributing less greenhouse gases than a normal gas-burning vehicle.
No “range anxiety”
With a hybrid, especially a plug-in hybrid, you have the distinct benefit of being able to run your car on electric power or gas. That means that if you are low on fuel, the battery can get you to the pump. And if you’re low on battery, the gas power can get you home.
Whether you’re behind the wheel of an EV or a hybrid, you’ll be driving our planet into a cleaner future. So if you’re not ready to go totally electric just yet, choose a hybrid…but if you really want zero tailpipe emissions, give the EV a shot. The good news is we have both types of vehicles at The Folsom Auto Mall. Visit us today and choose a Buick, GMC, Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Ram, Chevrolet, Toyota, Hyundai, KIA, Nissan or Ford. Test drive an EV and a hybrid. Ask us any questions you might have. We’re happy to help!
* https://www.bls.gov/opub/btn/volume-6/how-do-united-states-consumer-expenditures-compare-with-the-united-kingdom-and-japan.htm
** Average fuel savings of $1,000 is based on the averages of annual consumer mileage in the U.S., vehicle miles per gallon, cost of gasoline, EV efficiency and Duke Energy residential rates
*** https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/greenhouse-gas-emissions-typical-passenger-vehicle